[CR] Paramount History (Ed Granger)

(Example: Component Manufacturers)

To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Date: Sat, 12 Jun 2010 21:20:54 -0400
From: <edvintage63@aol.com>
Subject: [CR] Paramount History (Ed Granger)


I think you've done the relevant research, and now we're into the gray areas in any case. I suspect that Bob's site is correct that the P-13 was introduced in '63, and the distinguishing feature, besides perhaps the chrome lugs, seems to have been the inclusion of the expensive Campagnolo alloy crankset. My tendency is to go with the catalog in this case, unless the catalog has been dated incorrectly - but Bob tends to be pretty on top of this stuff. If the P-13 had been introduced in '64, I would also expect the Paramount picture in the catalog to have the newer "starburst" decal set - but this is hardly a slam-dunk, since catalog photos tend to get reused, sometimes for years. I think the Waterford site is almost certainly incorrect in listing the P-10 as having originated in '59, as this is contradicted by just about everything else I've seen or read, including, obviously, the catalogs from those years. On a '63 P-13, I would also expect to find a Campagnolo Gran Sport front derailleur, Gran Sport rear derailleur, Campagnolo shifters (possibly "open-C"), Campagnolo headset. Titan bar and stem, Campagnolo large flange hubs, and Weinmann centerpulls. Probably Campagnolo pedals, but not sure, and I'm not sure about the seatpost. Brooks saddle.

Ed Granger Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA

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Thank you Ed. The 62 catalogs on line show only P11, P12, P14 and the 63 show P11, P12, P13, P14. Does that mean the P13 came out in 63?

This Waterford site showing production numbers would seem to indicate the P10 ran from 1959 to 1979 http://www.waterfordbikes.com/site/company/para_stats.php It also indicates the P13 started in 1964 contradicting the catalog.

I found detailed information about each component 'standard' and optional on the 1971, but the early 60's do not appear to be so well documented. What should I be looking for to dress this 63? Anyone have relevant parts they will part with for a good cause?

One of the hardest things I suspect I'll have to find is a head badge. Anyone have one? Other than the one on the Not a Paramount E-bay Bike -> 360271667678 and then relisted -> http://ebay.com/<blah>

Jon M. Crate
Marietta, Georgia USA